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About city :
Munich is the third largest city of Germany (German: Deutschlandkarte) after Berlin and Hamburg. Located to the north of the Bavarian Alps, Munich is the capital and the largest city of Bavaria. The city was probably founded in 1158 by the monks of the Bavarian order, though it was formally granted the status of a city in 1175. The name Munich is derived from Munichen meaning ‘by the monk’s order’. Today it is one of the leading commercial cities of Germany and is globally ranked 15th out of 289 cities for economic and social innovations (2010 survey). The city occupies an area of 310.43 sq. km and has a population of around 1.38 million in 2012.

Geography :
The city of Munich is located 50 kms away from the Bavarian Alps on the plains of Upper Bavaria. The average altitude of the city is 520 meters. The northern part is occupied by a sandy plateau while the southern part is dotted with hills created by glacial deposits. Parts of the city are marshy. Rivers Isar and Wurm flow through the city.

Munich has a continental type of climate with hot summers and cold winters. Thunderstorms are common in summer evenings while most of the rainfall is concentrated in late spring and summer. A warm wind called the Foehn flows down the slopes of the Alps. It raises the temperature and clears the skies offering a breathtaking view of the mountain.

How to reach (transport) :
The Munich International airport is the busiest in Germany with connections to different destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. In addition, there is the Memmingen airport located 110 kms to the west o fMunich. There is also a train network to connect Munich with other parts of Germany and Europe. Several Autobahns connect Munich with cities like Stuttgart (A8), Berlin (A9), Deggendorf (A92), Lindau (A96) etc. Long haul buses also ply from the Central Bus stations to various destinations in Europe.

When to visit :
The most popular tourist season of Munich is the summer, from June to August. However, if you want to enjoy the beauties of the city without the congestion created by the tourists, then the best season to visit the city is March to May. The weather is perfect to help you enjoy both the indoor and the outdoor attractions. Apart from this, you may want to visit the city in September when the famous Oktoberfest takes place. But it is cold at that time.

Culture (Fairs and Festivals) and Traditions :
Munich is often referred to as a ‘cosmopolitan city with a heart’. The people here are friendly and welcoming as is reflected by the official motto of the city that says ‘Munichloves you’.

The city is rich in culture and traditions. It is also a very culturally active city. Orchestras, theatres and open houses are common. It has become an important venue for musicians from all overEurope. Art galleries, museums and cathedrals located throughout the city also offer a taste of the rich culture of the city.

Of all the festivals held in Munich, Oktoberfest is of international renown. Despite its name, this local folk festival is actually held in September. This festival was originally held in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Today, it has become the best known beer festival. This is the best time to sample some traditional German cuisine and excellent local beer though other amusements like crossbow contest and roller coaster rides are also offered.
Another festival is Maibaumaufstellen held on 1st May and involves the erection of a Maypole and dancing around it.

Finally, the Tollwood is a summer festival which is organized close to the Olympic Parc every year. It includes food, drinks, concerts, theatres and souvenir shops.

Points of Interest (Places to Visit) :
There are a vast number of palaces, museums, art galleries and churches to see around Munich. Some of the main attractions are as follows :

Nymphenburg is a royal palace with magnificent gardens that houses a number of museums.

Palaces near the city (Schleissheim﻿ andDachau).

Catholic cathedral whose twin towers dominate the landscape of the city (Dresden Frauenkirche).

Several museums include City museum, National Bavarian museum, National museum of Egyptian art and many more.

The Munich zoo is one of the largest in the world.

In addition, the beauty of the vast Englischer Garden and the Olympia Park and Marien Square and the New Town Hall of Munich are other attractions. The four grand royal avenues in the inner city of Munich lined by some of the most beautiful buildings are another attraction of the city.

Accommodation :
The true essence of a holiday can be felt when you have a suitable accommodation by your side. At Munich, you'll find plenty of options catering to your need and budget. Budget accommodation and youth hostels are located around the Munich central station. The high end and luxury hotels are located in the inner city area. Bed and breakfasts and pensions are common in the outskirts of the city. Some of popular options include Mandarin Oriental ( Luxury), Rocco Forte The Charles hotel ( 5 Star), Hotel Uhland ( Budget) and Hotel Eder ( Moderate).